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Three Weird Things to Put in Your Nose in the Name of Health

Ever since the surge in popularity of the neti pot (are you a fan?), there seems to be a lot of attention on how what you put in your nose can help prevent you from getting sick. Here are three new insert-in-your-nostrils-in-the-name-of-health products ...

Hot Peppers:Sinus Buster is a nasal spray made from--get ready for this--hot peppers. The formula contains capsaicin, a compound found in peppers that some believe provides relief for headaches, sinus symptoms and allergies. Will it burn? Yep, the manufacterer says--but only a little. "The 'burn' should last 10-30 seconds and will be easier to tolerate with use," according to the company's Web site. "This burn is necessary for the effectiveness of the product. More sensitive users may want to try our mild formula first." My take: Hmmm, maybe worth a try for people at the end of their rope with sinus issues, but honestly, burning nostrils doesn't sound like a pleasant experience.

Sanitizer: Just like you gel your hands with products like Purel to ward off germs, now there's a new product that lets you gel your nose. Nozin Nasal Sanitzer is designed to reduce the risk of infection by creating a barrier against germs entering the nose. Gaining popularity with frequent fliers, one swab of the alcohol and plant-based formula is said to give you germ protection for up to eight hours. My take: I have a sample of Nozin sitting here on my desk, and I'm too afraid to try it! I love the idea of germ protection, but I don't love the idea of sanitizing my nose.

Sea Water:Breathe Again has a line of nasal sprays made from sterilized seawater from the Atlantic Ocean. According to the product manufacturer, natural seawater is better for your nose than other traditional saline nasal sprays. My take: Tried it, loved it! I'm not so sure it's any more effective than traditional saline sprays, but being a fan of natural products, I like the idea of using something with real seawater.

How about you? Would you try any of these products in the name of staying healthy this cold/flu season?